The Web Health

Bacitracin ophthalmic

Generic name: Bacitracin ophthalmic [BAS-i-TRAY-sin-off-THAL-mik]
Brand names: AK Tracin Ocu-Tracin Baciguent Ophthalmic
Form of dosage: ophthalmic ointment, 500 units/g
Ophthalmic antiseptics

What is Bacitracin Ophthalmic?

Bacitracin is an antibacterial.The treatment of bacterial infections in the eye is done with Bacitracin Ophthalmic (for eyes).This medication guide does not list all possible uses of Bacitracin Ophthalmic.

Side effects of Bacitracin ophthalmic

If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your lips, face, tongue, or throat.You may experience less serious side effects or none at all.There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.

Warnings

Use Bacitracin Ophthalmic only if you are suffering from a viral infection or a fungus. Bacitracin ophthalmic only treats infections caused by bacteria.

Before you take this drug

If you have an allergy to bacitracin, this medication should be avoided.You should not use Bacitracin Ophthalmic if your eye has a viral or fungal infection. This medication only treats infections caused by bacteria.Do not use Bacitracin Ophthalmic to treat an eye infection unless your doctor has prescribed it.Inform your physician of any allergies or medical conditions you are currently suffering from.It is not believed that Bacitracin Ophthalmic will harm an unborn child. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant.It is unknown if bacitracin can pass into breast milk or if the baby who is nursing could be affected. Inform your doctor if breastfeeding is taking place.Do not administer this medicine without consulting a doctor.

How to take Bacitracin Ophthalmic?

Bacitracin ophthalmic can be applied three times daily. Please follow all the instructions on the prescription label. Use this medication only as directed. Do not exceed the recommended dosage or use it for longer.Before using eye medications, wash your hands.

How to apply the ointment

  • Create a pocket by tilting your head slightly back and pulling down your lower eyelid. The tip of the tube should be pointing towards this pocket. Focus your attention upwards and away from the tip.
  • Squeeze a small amount of ointment onto the lower eyelid without touching the tip of your eye. Blink gently, then close your eye for a minute or two.
  • Wipe off any excess ointment with a tissue.
  • You may experience blurred vision after opening your eyes for a few seconds. Avoid driving and doing other activities that require you to have clear vision.

Avoid touching the tube tip or placing it directly on your eye. The tip of the tube can cause serious vision problems if it is contaminated.Do not stop taking the medicine before it is completely cleared. You may experience improvement in your symptoms before the infection has completely resolved. You may also be at risk for a second infection resistant to anti-biotics if you skip doses. The ophthalmic Bacitracin will not treat viral infections, such as the flu and a common cold.If your symptoms do not improve or worsen, seek medical assistance immediately.Store away from moisture or heat at room temperature. Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat sources. When not in use, keep the tube tightly sealed.

What happens if I miss the dose?

As soon as possible, take the missed dose. If it is nearing time for another dosage to come due, however, skip over this one instead. You should not take extra medicine to compensate for a missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Overdoses of bacitracin are not dangerous. If anyone accidentally swallows the medication, seek emergency medical attention.Poison Help can also be reached at 1-800-222-1222.

What should be avoided?

Bacitracin ophthalmic can cause blurred vision. You should be careful when driving or doing anything else that requires clear vision.You should only use eye drops prescribed by your doctor.

Interaction with other drug

Bacitracin is unlikely to interact with other drugs that you may take orally or even inject. Many drugs interact with each other. Inform your healthcare provider about any medicines you take, including prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.